With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s not uncommon for people to become consumed by the idea of love.

For some, it is an overwhelmingly exciting feeling! They are anticipating what their significant other has planned for them, what they have planned for their significant other, or what they and their significant other have planned for each other, together!

But, for others, it is a time that reminds them that they are single.

A lot of people find solace in this. They are perfectly comfortable and happy with being single and independent. Whereas, some others, may not feel so optimistic about their relationship status.

But, whether or not you are in a relationship during Valentines Day, should not have to negatively impact your mood on this holiday.

There are SO many different ways to love and be loved. There is platonic love, romantic love, familial love, and, of course, the ever so famous in the realm of mental health, self-love.

So, why do those of us who emphasize the importance of mental health and well-being, also emphasize the importance of self-love?

The answer is simple, really; because it affects all other realms of your life! Practicing and radiating self-love can positively impact your mental health, physical well-being, quality of (all different types of) relationships, your drive/motivation, and so on!

Accepting yourself can make you happier:Research suggests that self-acceptance could lead to greater satisfaction with your life — but it’s a habit that many people practice the least. In order to start seeing yourself the way your friends see you, try asking some of your close pals to share what they think are some of your strengths. Then return the favor. You’ll get some insight into what stands out about you, and you’ll feel happier about the kindness you displayed back.

It could encourage you to reach those health goals:Research published in the journal Health Psychology found that building yourself up instead of tearing yourself down can lead to better health decisions. One way to keep track of your goals (and reinforce the accomplishments you’ve already made) is by writing them down. Studies show that putting pen to paper helps your health and well-being

Self-compassion may help with mental health issues:Studies suggest that those who have higher self-compassion are less at risk for developing depression or anxiety, the New York Times reported. Furthermore, research also shows that loving yourself has the potential to make you more optimistic

It can push you to stop procrastinating:Research suggests that self-compassion can reduce the stress that causes us to procrastinate because it helps us recognize the downside of the habit without putting us in a negative thought spiral. If you’re worried about completing a task (and putting it off as a result), try a little self-affirmation, which has been shown to increase problem-solving skills when you’re stressed.

Loving yourself can lead you through adversity:A study published in the journal Psychological Science found that recently divorced individuals who spoke compassionately toward themselves were more able to bounce back in the months following the separation than those who spoke with self-criticism. So how do we start talking to ourselves in this way? Try some simple meditation, which may help give you a momentary boost in self-compassion.

Like what you’ve read so far? Click here to read the full article on the scientifically proven positive relationship between self-love and bettering your life!

– Virginia Johnson

Are you struggling with self-love, self-acceptance, or are you just interested in talking to someone about things going on in your life because you simply feel that you do not as you should? Sometimes having a partner in your journey can help. Give us a call to set up a free phone consultation at Life Skills Resource Group Orlando at 407-355-7378, and one of our Orlando Individual Counselors, Orlando Life Coaches, Orlando Teen Counselors, and Orlando Child counselors would be more than happy to help you, a family member, or a friend work on changing your life.